FTB’s Free Online Services Help Taxpayers Navigate Filing Season

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Nine out of 10 taxpayers already file their state returns electronically, with most direct deposit refunds arriving within two weeks. The FTB website offers information on a variety of filing options, including free and easy-to-use CalFile.

FTB encourages taxpayers to sign up for a MyFTB Account, which allows users to manage their state income taxes through an interface similar to online banking. MyFTB makes it easier to change an address, see past returns, view an account balance, and track communication with FTB. MyFTB users can also use Secure Chat to ask questions specific to their account.

The main customer service line, 800-852-5711, has a callback feature that dials a taxpayer when an FTB agent becomes available. FTB also offers Live Chat so taxpayers can connect with FTB on general, non-confidential issues.

To get real-time updates on all communication channels, taxpayers may click “Know Our Wait Times.” The wait times page also displays trends from the past week to help taxpayers plan ahead.

Taxpayers who have already filed and expect a refund can use the Check Your Refund Status tool. FTB also provides this service in Spanish.

FTB administers two of California's major tax programs: Personal Income Tax and the Corporation Tax. FTB also administers other nontax programs and delinquent debt collection functions, including delinquent vehicle registration debt collections on behalf of the Department of Motor Vehicles, and court–ordered debt. Annually, FTB’s tax programs collect more than 65 percent of the state’s general fund. For more information on other taxes and fees in California, visit taxes.ca.gov.